Joseph
Sold by Brothers, Raised by God
Name Information
- Meaning: "He adds" or "May He increase"
- Language of Origin: Hebrew
- Gender Usage: Masculine
Joseph, the beloved son of Jacob, was rejected by his brothers, sold into slavery, and unjustly imprisoned — yet God raised him up to save many. His story is one of providence, integrity, and redemption, and it powerfully foreshadows Jesus Christ.
⏰ Patriarchs
Roles
- Son
- Slave
- Prisoner
- Ruler
- Savior of Nations
Relationships
- Parents: Jacob and Rachel
- Spouse: Asenath
- Children: Manasseh and Ephraim
Story
Joseph was Jacob’s favored son, clothed in a special robe and given dreams that foretold his future rule. His brothers, filled with envy, sold him into slavery.
In Egypt, Joseph served in the house of Potiphar. His master's wife repeatedly tried to seduce him, but unlike many who might entertain the temptation, Joseph feared God. He said, 'How then could I do such a wicked thing and sin against God?' and fled — choosing integrity over desire.
Though innocent, he was falsely accused by Potiphar’s wife and thrown into prison. Even in confinement, Joseph remained faithful, serving others and interpreting dreams by God’s wisdom.
God exalted him by enabling him to interpret Pharaoh’s dreams, leading to his appointment as ruler over Egypt — second only to Pharaoh.
During famine, Joseph’s brothers unknowingly came to him for help. He tested their hearts, then revealed his identity and extended forgiveness.
Joseph preserved the lives of his family and many nations. What his brothers meant for evil, God used for good — a stunning testimony of divine providence.
Spiritual Significance
- Beloved son of Jacob, but hated by his brothers and sold into slavery
- Remained faithful to God in adversity — both in Potiphar’s house and in prison
- Raised up to rule Egypt and save multitudes during famine — including the family of Israel
- Forgave and restored his brothers, preserving the covenant line
Christ Connection
Joseph’s life foreshadows Jesus Christ in remarkable ways. Both were beloved sons sent by their father, rejected by their brothers, and handed over for silver.
Though innocent, Joseph was falsely accused, stripped of his robe, and placed among criminals — yet God was with him. Like Jesus, he remained faithful through suffering.
At thirty, Joseph was exalted to the right hand of power in Egypt, saving lives during a great famine — just as Christ was exalted and gives the bread of life to a starving world.
Joseph forgave those who betrayed him and used his power for their redemption, not revenge. His story points to Jesus, who saves even those who once rejected Him.
All bowed before Joseph in the end — a preview of the day when every knee will bow before Jesus, the true and greater Deliverer.
What We Can Learn
- God’s providence is always at work — even when we are in the pit, prison, or forgotten. He uses every detail to fulfill His purpose.
- Faithfulness in hidden places prepares us for fruitfulness in public ones. Joseph’s integrity in slavery and prison shaped his readiness for power.
- God can use betrayal to position us for blessing. What others intend for harm, God can redeem for His glory and our good.
- Forgiveness is not weakness — it’s a redemptive power. Joseph did not retaliate against his brothers but embraced them with mercy and grace.
- Joseph points us to Jesus: the Righteous One who suffered unjustly, was exalted gloriously, and now offers salvation to the very ones who rejected Him.
Memory Verses
You meant evil against me, but God meant it for good, to bring it about that many people should be kept alive, as they are today.
— Genesis 50:20
Key Passages
- Genesis 37–50
- Psalm 105:16–22
- Acts 7:9–14
We do our best to ensure all content aligns with Scripture. However, we’re human — if you notice any errors, please let us know at contact@bibleinshort.com.